Waivers & Communication Consent

Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Indemnity

(To be executed by Participants over the Age of Majority)

WARNING! By signing this Agreement, you will waive certain legal rights. Please read carefully

This is a binding legal agreement. Clarify any questions or concerns before signing. As a participant in the spectating, orientation, instruction, activities, competitions, programs, and services of Racquetball Canada, its Provincial/Territorial Racquetball Associations, and/or Racquetball Clubs (collectively the “Activities”), the undersigned acknowledges and agrees to the terms outlined in this document.

Disclaimer

Racquetball Canada, its Provincial/Territorial Racquetball Associations, Racquetball Clubs, and their respective, directors, officers, committee members, members, employees, coaches, volunteers, officials, participants, agents, sponsors, facility owners/operators, and representatives(collectively the “Organization”) are not responsible for any injury, personal injury, damage, property damage, expense, loss of income or loss of any kind suffered by a Participant during, or as a result of, the Activities, caused in any manner whatsoever including, but not limited to, the negligence of the Organization.

Description and Acknowledgement of Risks

I understand and acknowledge that

The Activities have foreseeable and unforeseeable inherent risks, hazards and dangers that no amount of care, caution or expertise can eliminate, including without limitation, the potential for serious bodily injury, permanent disability, paralysis and loss of life; and
The Organization has a difficult task to ensure safety and it is not infallible. The Organization may be unaware of my fitness or abilities, may misjudge weather or environmental conditions, may give incomplete warnings or instructions, and the equipment being used might malfunction.

I am participating voluntarily in the Activities. In consideration of my participation, I hereby acknowledge that I am aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with or related to the Activities. The risks, dangers and hazards include, but are not limited to:

Executing strenuous and demanding physical techniques;
Vigorous physical exertion, strenuous cardiovascular workouts and rapid movements;
Exerting and stretching various muscle groups;
The failure to properly use any piece of equipment or from the mechanical failure of any piece of equipment;
Spinal cord injuries which may render me permanently paralyzed;
Serious injury to virtually all bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons and other aspects of my body or to my general health and well-being;
Abrasions, sprains, strains, fractures, or dislocations;
Concussion or other head injuries, including but not limited to, closed head injury or blunt head trauma;
Physical contact with other participants, spectators, equipment, the court, and hazards;
Not wearing appropriate safety equipment;
Failure to act safely or within my own ability or within designated areas;
Equipment failure;
Negligence of other persons, including other spectators, participants, or employees;
Weather conditions which may result in hypothermia;
Travel to and from competitive events and associated non-competitive events which are an integral part of the Organization’s Activities; and
Negligence on the part of the Organization, including failure on the part of the Organization to take reasonable steps to safeguard or protect me from the risks, dangers and hazards associated with my participation in the Activities.

Terms

In consideration of the Organization allowing me to participate in the Activities, I agree:

That my mental and physical condition is appropriate to participate in the Activities and I assume all risks related to my mental or physical condition;
To comply with the rules and regulations for participation in the Activities;
To comply with the rules of facility and equipment;
That if I observe an unusual significant hazard or risk, I will remove myself from participation and bring such to the attention of an Organization representative immediately;
The risks associated with the Activities are increased when I am impaired and I agree not to participate if impaired in any way;
That it is my sole responsibility to assess whether any Activities are too difficult for me. By commencing an Activity, I acknowledge and accept the suitability and conditions of the Activity; and
That I am responsible for my choice of safety equipment and the secure fitting of the safety equipment.

Release of Liability and Disclaimer

In consideration of the Organization allowing me to participate, I agree:

That the sole responsibility for my safety remains with me;
To ASSUME all risks arising out of, associated with or related to my participation;
To WAIVE any and all claims that I may have now or in the future against the Organization;
To freely ACCEPT AND FULLY ASSUME all such risks and possibility of personal injury, death, property damage, expense and related loss, including loss of income, resulting from my participation in the activities, events and programs of the Organization; and
To FOREVER RELEASE AND INDEMNIFY the Organization from any and all liability for any and all claims, demands, actions, damages (including direct, indirect, special and/or consequential), losses, actions, judgments, and costs (including legal fees) (collectively, the “Claims”) which I have or may have in the future, that might arise out of, result from, or relate to my participation in the Activities, even though such Claims may have been caused by any manner whatsoever, including but not limited to, the negligence, gross negligence, negligent rescue, omissions, carelessness, breach of contract and/or breach of any statutory duty of care of the Organization;
That negligence includes failure on the part of the Organization to take reasonable steps to safeguard or protect me from the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the Activities; and
This release, waiver and indemnity is intended to be as broad and inclusive as is permitted by law of the Province of Manitoba and if any portion thereof is held invalid, the balance shall, notwithstanding, continue in full legal force and effect.

Jurisdiction

I agree that in the event that I file a lawsuit against the Organization, I agree to do so solely in the province of Manitoba, Canada and further agree that the substantive law of Manitoba will apply without regard to conflict of law rules. I further agree that if any portion of this agreement is found to be void or unenforceable, the remaining document shall remain in full force and effect.

Acknowledgement

I acknowledge that I have read and understand this agreement, that I have executed this agreement voluntarily, and that this agreement is to be binding upon myself, my heirs, spouse, children, parents, guardians, next of kin, executors, administrators and legal or personal representatives. I further acknowledge by signing this agreement I have waived my right to maintain a lawsuit against the Organization on the basis of any claims from which I have released herein.

By typing in your name below and clicking the “I Agree” icon, you agree to be bound this Legal Agreement.

Informed Consent and Assumption of Risk

(To be executed by Participants under the Age of Majority)

WARNING! By signing this document, you will assume certain risks and responsibilities. Please read carefully

This is a binding legal agreement. Clarify any questions or concerns before signing. As a Participant in the spectating, orientation, instruction, activities, programs, and services (collectively the “Activities) of Racquetball Canada, its Provincial/Territorial Racquetball Associations, and/or Racquetball Clubs (collectively the “Organization”), the undersigned, being the Participant and the Participant’s Parent/Guardian (collectively the “Parties”), acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in this document.

Description of Risks

The Parties understand and acknowledge that:

The Activities have foreseeable and unforeseeable inherent risks, hazards and dangers that no amount of care, caution or expertise can eliminate, including without limitation, the potential for serious bodily injury, permanent disability, paralysis and loss of life; and
The Organization has a difficult task to ensure safety and it is not infallible. The Organization may be unaware of the Participant’s fitness or abilities, may give incomplete warnings or instructions, may misjudge weather or environmental conditions, and the equipment being used might malfunction.

The Participant is participating voluntarily in the Activities. In consideration of that participation, the Parties hereby acknowledge that they are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards and may be exposed to such risks, dangers and hazards. The risks, dangers and hazards include, but are not limited to:

Executing strenuous and demanding physical techniques;
Vigorous physical exertion, strenuous cardiovascular workouts and rapid movements;
Exerting and stretching various muscle groups;
The failure to properly use any piece of equipment or from the mechanical failure of any piece of equipment;
Spinal cord injuries which may render the Participant permanently paralyzed;
Serious injury to virtually all bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons and other aspects of the Participant’s body or to the Participant’s general health and well-being;
Abrasions, sprains, strains, fractures, or dislocations;
Concussion or other head injuries, including but not limited to, closed head injury or blunt head trauma;
Physical contact with other participants, spectators, equipment, the court, and hazards;
Not wearing appropriate safety equipment;
Failure to act safely or within the Participant’s ability or within designated areas;
Equipment failure;
Negligence of other persons, including other spectators, participants, or employees; and
Travel to and from competitive events and associated non-competitive events which are an integral part of the Organization’s Activities

Terms

In consideration of the Organization allowing the Participant to participate in the Activities, the Parties agree:

That the Participant’s mental and physical condition is appropriate to participate in the Activities and the Parties assume all risks related to the Participant’s mental or physical condition;
To comply with the rules and regulations for participation in the Activities;
To comply with the rules of the facility and equipment;
That if the Participant observes an unusual significant hazard or risk, the Participant will remove themselves from participation and bring such to the attention of an Organization representative immediately;
The risks associated with the Activities are increased when the Participant is impaired and the Participant agrees not to participate if impaired in any way;
That it is their sole responsibility to assess whether any Activities are too difficult for the Participant. By the Participant commencing an Activity, they acknowledge and accept the suitability and conditions of the Activity; and
That they are responsible for the choice of the Participant’s safety equipment and the secure fitting of the safety equipment.

Acknowledgement

The Parties acknowledge that they have read this agreement and understand it, that they have executed this agreement voluntarily, and that this Agreement is to be binding upon themselves, their heirs, their spouses, parents, guardians, next of kin, executors, administrators and legal or personal representatives.

By typing in your name as participant below, your name as your parent/guardian below and clicking the “We Agree” icon, the Parties agree to be bound this Legal Agreement.

Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP)

The Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP) is generally considered to be one of the most thorough and comprehensive doping control policies in the world. By operating on the basis of a collective agreement within the sport, the policy provides for a truly independent, transparent and cost-effective anti-doping system. It also provides the procedural fairness and protects the athletes’ rights throughout the process.

Benefits to Racquetball Canada and its Members:

Independent, transparent system provides the athletes and the public, confidence in Racquetball Canada and our anti-doping policy.

When all (majority) sports adopt the policy, it reduces our liability. The CADP serves as a shield against legal challenges to individual National Sport Organizations (NSO).

The CADP and more specifically, the Standard Operating Procedures have not had any successful legal challenges.

All testing services, laboratory analysis, result management and the administration of procedural fairness are all paid for by the Federal Government and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport when Racquetball Canada becomes part of the system by adopting the CADP.

Racquetball Canada has adopted the 2015 Canadian Anti-Doping Program ( https://cces.ca/sites/default/... ) as the anti-doping policy and regulations of the organization.

Racquetball Canada Code of Conduct and Ethics

Definitions

1. The following terms have these meanings in this Code:

“Abuse” – As defined in Racquetball Canada’s Abuse Policy;
“Discrimination” – Differential treatment of an individual based on one or more prohibited grounds which include race, citizenship, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics, or disability;
“Harassment” – A course of vexatious comment or conduct against an Individual or group, which is known or ought to reasonably be known to be unwelcome. Types of behaviour that constitute Harassment include, but are not limited to:
1. Written or verbal abuse, threats, or outbursts;
2. Persistent unwelcome remarks, jokes, comments, innuendo, or taunts;
3. Racial harassment, which is racial slurs, jokes, name calling, or insulting behaviour or terminology that reinforces stereotypes or discounts abilities because of racial or ethnic origin;
4. Leering or other suggestive or obscene gestures;
5. Condescending or patronizing behaviour which is intended to undermine self-esteem, diminish performance or adversely affect working conditions;
6. Practical jokes which endanger a person’s safety, or may negatively affect performance;
7. Hazing, which is any form of conduct which exhibits any potentially humiliating, degrading, abusive, or dangerous activity expected of a junior-ranking individual by a more senior individual, which does not contribute to either individual’s positive development, but is required to be accepted as part of a team or group, regardless of the junior-ranking individual’s willingness to participate. This includes, but is not limited to, any activity, no matter how traditional or seemingly benign, that sets apart or alienates any teammate or group member based on class, number of years on the team or with the group, or ability;
8. Unwanted physical contact including, but not limited to, touching, petting, pinching, or kissing;
9. Deliberately excluding or socially isolating a person from a group or team;
10. Persistent sexual flirtations, advances, requests, or invitations;
11. Physical or sexual assault;
12. Behaviours such as those described above that are not directed towards a specific person or group but have the same effect of creating a negative or hostile environment; and
13. Retaliation or threats of retaliation against a person who reports harassment to Racquetball Canada.

“Individuals” – refers to all categories of members and/or registrants of Racquetball Canada and its Provincial/Territorial Associations and affiliated clubs, as well as all people employed by, contracted by, or engaged in activities with, Racquetball Canada, and its Provincial/Territorial Associations and affiliated club, including, but not limited to, employees, contractors, athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, managers, administrators, committee members, parents or guardians, spectators, and directors and officers;
“Provincial/Territorial Associations” – Provincial/Territorial Associations are the racquetball associations that are affiliated with Racquetball Canada;
“Sexual Harassment” – A course of vexatious comment or conduct against an Individual because of sex, sexual orientation, gender identify or gender expression, where the course of comment or conduct is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome; or making a sexual solicitation or advance where the person making the solicitation or advance is in a position to confer, grant or deny a benefit or advance to the Individual and the person knows or ought reasonably to know that the solicitation or advance is unwelcome. Types of behaviour that constitute Sexual Harassment include, but are not limited to:
1. Sexist jokes;
2. Threats, punishment, or denial of a benefit for refusing a sexual advance;
3. Offering a benefit in exchange for a sexual favour; iv. Demanding hugs;

1. Bragging about sexual ability;
2. Leering (persistent sexual staring);
3. Sexual assault;
4. Display of sexually offensive material;
5. Distributing sexually explicit messages or attachments such as pictures or video files;
6. Sexually degrading words used to describe an Individual;
7. Unwelcome inquiries into or comments about an Individual’s gender identity or physical appearance;
8. Inquiries or comments about an Individual’s sex life;
9. Persistent, unwanted attention after a consensual relationship ends; xiv. Persistent unwelcome sexual flirtations, advances, or propositions; and

xv. Persistent unwanted contact.

“Workplace” - Any place where business or work-related activities are conducted. Workplaces include but are not limited to, Racquetball Canada and its provincial/territorial organizations members, leagues or clubs’ office, work-related social functions, work assignments outside the offices, work-related travel, the training and competition environment, and work-related conferences or training sessions;
“Workplace Harassment” – Vexatious comment or conduct against a worker in a Workplace that is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome. Workplace Harassment should not be confused with legitimate, reasonable management actions that are part of the normal work/training function, including measures to correct performance deficiencies, such as placing someone on a performance improvement plan, or imposing discipline for workplace infractions. Types of behaviour that constitute Workplace Harassment include, but are not limited to: i.Bullying;
1. Workplace pranks, vandalism, bullying or hazing;
2. Repeated offensive or intimidating phone calls or emails; iv. Inappropriate sexual touching, advances, suggestions or requests;

1. Displaying or circulating offensive pictures, photographs or materials in printed or electronic form;
2. Psychological abuse;
3. Excluding or ignoring someone, including persistent exclusion of a person from work-related social gatherings;
4. Deliberately withholding information that would enable a person to do his or her job, perform or train;
5. Sabotaging someone else’s work or performance;
6. Gossiping or spreading malicious rumours;
7. Intimidating words or conduct (offensive jokes or innuendos); and
8. Words or actions, which are known or should reasonably be known to be offensive, embarrassing, humiliating, or demeaning.
“Workplace Violence” – the use of or threat of physical force by a person against a worker in a Workplace that causes or could cause physical injury to the worker; an attempt to exercise physical force against a worker in a Workplace that could cause physical injury to the worker; or a statement or behaviour that it is reasonable for a worker to interpret as a threat to exercise physical force against the worker in a Workplace that could cause physical injury to the worker. Types of behaviour that constitute Workplace Violence include, but are not limited to:
1. Verbal or written threats to attack;

1. Sending to or leaving threatening notes or emails;
2. Physically threatening behaviour such as shaking a fist at someone, finger pointing, destroying property, or throwing objects;
3. Wielding a weapon in a Workplace;
4. Hitting, pinching or unwanted touching which is not accidental;
5. Dangerous or threatening horseplay;
6. Physical restraint or confinement;
7. Blatant or intentional disregard for the safety or wellbeing of others;
8. Blocking normal movement or physical interference, with or without the use of equipment;
9. Sexual violence; and
10. Any attempt to engage in the type of conduct outlined above.

Purpose

2. The purpose of this Code is to ensure a safe and positive environment (within Racquetball Canada’s and its Provincial/Territorial Associations and clubs’ programs, activities, and events by making Individuals aware that there is an expectation, at all times, of appropriate behaviour consistent with Racquetball Canada’s core values. Racquetball Canada supports equal opportunity, prohibits discriminatory practices, and is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and fairness.

Application of this Code

This Code applies to Individuals’ conduct during Racquetball Canada’s business, activities, and events including, but not limited to, competitions, practices, tryouts, training camps, travel associated with Racquetball Canada’s activities, Racquetball Canada’s office environment, and any meetings.
An Individual who violates this Code may be subject to sanctions pursuant to Racquetball Canada’s Discipline and Complaints Policy. In addition to facing possible sanction pursuant to Racquetball Canada’s Discipline and Complaints Policy, an Individual who violates this Code during a competition may be ejected from the competition or the playing area, the official may delay the competition until the Individual complies with the ejection, and the Individual may be subject to any additional discipline associated with the competition.
An employee of Racquetball Canada found to have engaged in acts of violence or harassment against any other employee, worker, contractor, member, customer, supplier, client or other third party during business hours, or at any event of Racquetball Canada, will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action subject to the terms of Racquetball Canada’s Human Resources Policy as well as the employee’s Employment Agreement (if applicable).
This Code also applies to Individuals’ conduct outside of Racquetball Canada’s business, activities, and events when such conduct adversely affects relationships within Racquetball Canada (and its work and sport environment) and is detrimental to the image and reputation of Racquetball Canada. Such applicability will be determined by Racquetball Canada at its sole discretion.

Responsibilities

7. Individuals have a responsibility to:

a. Maintain and enhance the dignity and self-esteem of Racquetball Canada’s members and other individuals by:

Treating each other with the highest standards of respect and integrity;
Focusing comments or criticism appropriately and avoiding public criticism of athletes, coaches, officials, organizers, volunteers, employees, or members;
Consistently demonstrating the spirit of sportsmanship, sport leadership, and ethical conduct;
Acting, when appropriate, to correct or prevent practices that are unjustly discriminatory; v. Consistently treating individuals fairly and reasonably; and vi. Ensuring adherence to the rules of the sport and the spirit of those rules.

Refrain from any behaviour that constitutes Harassment, Workplace Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Workplace Violence, Abuse, or Discrimination;
Abstain from the non-medical use of drugs or the use of performance-enhancing drugs or methods. More specifically, Racquetball Canada adopts and adheres to the Canadian Anti-Doping Program. Any infraction under this Program shall be considered an infraction of this Code and may be subject to further disciplinary action, and possible sanction, pursuant to Racquetball Canada’s Discipline and Complaints Policy. Racquetball Canada will respect any penalty enacted pursuant to a breach of the Canadian Anti-Doping Program, whether imposed by Racquetball Canada or any other sport organization;
Refrain from associating with any person for the purpose of coaching, training, competition, instruction, administration, management, athletic development, or supervision of the sport, who has incurred an anti-doping rule violation and is serving a sanction involving a period of ineligibility imposed pursuant to the Canadian Anti-Doping Program and/or the World Anti-Doping Code and recognized by the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES);
Refrain from the use of power or authority in an attempt to coerce another person to engage in inappropriate activities;
In the case of minors, not consume alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis at any competition or event;
In the case of adults, take reasonable steps to manage the responsible consumption of alcohol in adult-oriented social situations associated with Racquetball Canada’s events;
Respect the property of others and not wilfully cause damage;
Promote the sport in the most constructive and positive manner possible;
When driving a vehicle with an Individual:
1. Not have his or her license suspended;
2. Not be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs or substances; iii. Have valid car insurance; iv. Not use a mobile device with his or her hands.
Adhere to all federal, provincial, municipal and host country laws;
Refrain from engaging in deliberate cheating which is intended to manipulate the outcome of a competition and/or not offer or receive any bribe which is intended to manipulate the outcome of a competition;
Comply, at all times, with Racquetball Canada’s bylaws, policies, procedures, and rules and regulations, as adopted and amended from time to time;
Report any ongoing criminal investigation, conviction, or existing bail conditions involving an Individual to Racquetball Canada or to a Provincial/Territorial Association including, but not limited to, those for violence, child pornography, or possession, use, or sale of any illegal substance.

Directors, Committee Members, and Staff

8. In addition to section 7 (above), Racquetball Canada’s Directors, Committee Members, and Staff will have additional responsibilities to:

Function primarily as a Director or Committee Member or Staff Member of Racquetball Canada; not as a member of any other group or constituency;
Act with honesty and integrity and conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the nature and responsibilities of Racquetball Canada’s business and the maintenance of Individuals’ confidence;
Ensure that Racquetball Canada’s financial affairs are conducted in a responsible and transparent manner with due regard for all fiduciary responsibilities;
Conduct themselves transparently, professionally, lawfully and in good faith in the best interests of Racquetball Canada;
Be independent, impartial, and not be influenced by self-interest, outside pressure, expectation of reward, or fear of criticism;
Behave with decorum appropriate to both circumstance and position;
Keep informed about Racquetball Canada’s activities, the sport community, and general trends in the sectors in which it operates;
Exercise the degree of care, diligence, and skill required in the performance of their duties pursuant to the laws under which Racquetball Canada is incorporated;
Respect the confidentiality appropriate to issues of a sensitive nature;
Respect the decisions of the majority and resign if unable to do so;
Commit the time to attend meetings and be diligent in preparation for, and participation in, discussions at such meetings;
Have a thorough knowledge and understanding of all Racquetball Canada’s governing documents;
Conform to the bylaws and policies approved by Racquetball Canada.

Coaches

9. In addition to section 7 (above), coaches have many additional responsibilities. The coach-athlete relationship is a privileged one and plays a critical role in the personal, sport, and athletic development of the athlete. Coaches must understand and respect the inherent power imbalance that exists in this relationship and must be extremely careful not to abuse it, consciously or unconsciously. Coaches will:

Ensure a safe environment by selecting activities and establishing controls that are suitable for the age, experience, ability, and fitness level of the involved athletes;
Prepare athletes systematically and progressively, using appropriate time frames and monitoring physical and psychological adjustments while refraining from using training methods or techniques that may harm athletes;
Avoid compromising the present and future health of athletes by communicating and cooperating with sport medicine professionals in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of athletes’ medical and psychological treatments;
Support the coaching staff of a training camp, provincial team, or national team; should an athlete qualify for participation with one of these programs;
Accept and promote athletes’ personal goals and refer athletes to other coaches and sports specialists as appropriate;
Provide athletes (and the parents/guardians of minor athletes) with the information necessary to be involved in the decisions that affect the athlete;
Act in the best interest of the athlete’s development as a whole person;
Comply with Racquetball Canada’s Screening Policy, if applicable;
Report to Racquetball Canada any ongoing criminal investigation, conviction, or existing bail conditions, including those for violence, child pornography, or possession, use, or sale of any illegal substance;
Under no circumstances provide, promote, or condone the use of drugs (other than properly prescribed medications) or performance-enhancing substances and, in the case of minors, alcohol, cannabis, and/or tobacco;
Respect athletes playing with other teams and, in dealings with them, not encroach upon topics or actions which are deemed to be within the realm of 'coaching', unless after first receiving approval from the coaches who are responsible for the athletes;
Not engage in a sexual relationship with an athlete under the age of majority;
Disclose any sexual or intimate relationship with an athlete over the age of majority to Racquetball Canada and immediately discontinue any coaching involvement with that athlete;
Recognize the power inherent in the position of coach and respect and promote the rights of all participants in sport. This is accomplished by establishing and following procedures for confidentiality (right to privacy), informed participation, and fair and reasonable treatment. Coaches have a special responsibility to respect and promote the rights of participants who are in a vulnerable or dependent position and less able to protect their own rights;
Dress professionally, neatly, and inoffensively;
Use inoffensive language, taking into account the audience being addressed.

Athletes

10. In addition to section 7 (above), athletes will have additional responsibilities to:

Report any medical problems in a timely fashion, when such problems may limit their ability to travel, practice, or compete;
Participate and appear on-time and prepared to participate to their best abilities in all competitions, practices, training sessions, tryouts, tournaments, and events;
Properly represent themselves and not attempt to participate in a competition for which they are not eligible by reason of age, classification, or other reason;
Adhere to Racquetball Canada’s rules and requirements regarding clothing and equipment;
Act in a sportsmanlike manner and not display appearances of violence, foul language, or gestures to other athletes, officials, coaches, or spectators;
Dress to represent the sport and themselves well and with professionalism;
Act in accordance with Racquetball Canada’s policies and procedures and, when applicable, additional rules as outlined by coaches or managers.

Officials

11. In addition to section 7 (above), officials will have additional responsibilities to:

Maintain and update their knowledge of the rules and rules changes;
Work within the boundaries of their position’s description while supporting the work of other officials;
Act as an ambassador of Racquetball Canada by agreeing to enforce and abide by national and provincial rules and regulations;
Take ownership of actions and decisions made while officiating;
Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of all Individuals;
Not publicly criticize other officials or any club or association;
Act openly, impartially, professionally, lawfully, and in good faith;
Be fair, equitable, considerate, independent, honest, and impartial in all dealings with others;
Respect the confidentiality required by issues of a sensitive nature, which may include ejections, defaults, forfeits, discipline processes, appeals, and specific information or data about Individuals;
Honour all assignments unless unable to do so by virtue of illness or personal emergency, and in these cases inform the assignor or association at the earliest possible time;
When writing reports, set out the actual facts;
Dress in proper attire for officiating.

Parents/Guardians and Spectators

12. In addition to section 7 (above), parents/guardians and spectators at events will:

Encourage athletes to compete within the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence;
Condemn the use of violence in any form;
Never ridicule a participant for making a mistake during a performance or practice;
Provide positive comments that motivate and encourage participants’ continued effort;
Respect the decisions and judgments of officials, and encourage athletes to do the same;
Never question an official’s or staff member’s judgment or honesty;
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse, coercion, intimidation, and sarcasm;
Respect and show appreciation to all competitors, and to the coaches, officials and other volunteers;
Not harass competitors, coaches, officials, parents/guardians, or other spectators.

Racquetball Canada Media Release

I hereby consent to be interviewed, recorded, photographed, videotaped or filmed by representatives of Racquetball Canada, its Provincial Associations and affiliates while I participate in sanctioned racquetball activities and events and grant permission to use any recordings, images and interview content. The right of use shall include the right to publish, adapt, reproduce, distribute in connection with any product or service for any purpose (including promotion, advertising and trade) in all markets, media or technology now know or hereafter developed.

I also consent to being interviewed, photographed, videotaped or recorded by electronic or print media while I participate in sanctioned racquetball activities and events.

I shall not have any claims for compensation to any interviews, recordings, articles, quotes, photographs, films, audio or video and/or any reproductions in any form. I hold harmless and release Racquetball Canada, its Provincial Associations and affiliates from all claims, demands and causes of action. (including, without limitation, any claim that is based on an alleged misrepresentation, negligence, defamation, breach of privacy, right of publicity infringement or an infringement of any applicable privacy legislation.)

If you have any questions about the collection of personal information by Racquetball Canada or its Provincial Associations and affiliates as referenced on this form, please contact: Racquetball Canada, 145 Pacific Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 2Z6 or execdirector@racquetballcanada.ca.

I further understand that this consent may be withdrawn by me at any time, upon written notice.

By signing, I acknowledge that I have read, understand and agree with the contents contained in this consent and release form or it has been read (or translated) to me, and I have had the opportunity to ask questions about it and understand it.

Parent/Guardian Consent

If the person signing is under 18 years of age, there must be consent of a parent or guardian is required.

I certify that I am the parent or guardian of the participant and give my consent on behalf of this person.

Racquetball Canada Concussion Policy

Preamble

This Policy is based on the 5^th Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport that was released in April 2017. This Policy interprets the information contained in the report that was prepared by the 2017 Concussion in Sport Group (CISG), a group of sport concussion medical practitioners and experts, and adapts concussion assessment and management tools;
Parts of this Policy are intended to be compliant with Ontario’s Rowan’s Law (Concussion Safety), 2018. If any provision of the policy is in conflict with Rowan’s Law, the legislation shall take precedence;
The CISG suggested 11 ‘R’s of Sport-Related Concussion (“SRC”) management to provide a logical flow of concussion management. This Policy is similarly arranged. The 11 R’s in this Policy are: Recognize, Remove, Re-Evaluate, Rest, Rehabilitation, Refer, Recover, Return to Sport, Reconsider, Residual Effects, and Risk Reduction;
A concussion is a clinical diagnosis that can only be made by a physician. Racquetball Canada accepts no liability for Participants or other individuals in their use or interpretation of this Policy.

Definitions

5. The following terms have these meanings in this Policy:

“Participant” – Coaches, athletes, volunteers, officials and other participants;
“Suspected Concussion” – means the recognition that an individual appears to have either experienced an injury or impact that may result in a concussion or who is exhibiting unusual behaviour that may be the result of concussion;
“Sport-Related Concussion (“SRC”) – A sport-related concussion is a traumatic brain injury induced by biomechanical forces. Several common features that may be used to define the nature of a SRC may include:
1. Caused either by a direct blow to the head, face, neck or elsewhere on the body with an impulsive force transmitted to the head;
2. Typically results in the rapid onset of short-lived impairment of neurological function that resolves spontaneously. However, in some cases, signs and symptoms evolve over a number of minutes to hours;
3. May result in neuropathological changes, but the acute clinical signs and symptoms largely reflect a functional disturbance rather than a structural injury and, as such, no abnormality may be visibly apparent;
4. Results in a range of clinical signs and symptoms that may or may not involve loss of consciousness. Resolution of the clinical and cognitive features typically follows a sequential course. However, in some cases symptoms may be prolonged.

Purpose

Racquetball Canada is committed to ensuring the safety of those participating in racquetball. Racquetball Canada recognizes the increased awareness of concussions and their long-term effects and believes that prevention of concussions is paramount to protecting the health and safety of Participants.
This Policy provides guidance in identifying common signs and symptoms of a concussion, protocol to be followed in the event of a possible concussion and return to participation guidelines should a concussion be diagnosed. Awareness of the signs and symptoms of concussion and knowledge of how to properly manage a concussion is critical to recovery and helping to ensure the individual is not returning to physical activities too soon, risking further complication.

Registration in Ontario

When an individual from Ontario who is under the age of 26 years old registers with Racquetball Canada, the individual mustprovide written or electronic confirmation that they have reviewed concussion awareness resources within the past 12 months. The Ontario Government has produced age-appropriate concussion resources located here:
Individuals under the age of 26 years old must also sign the Concussion Code of Conduct (Appendix A).
For athletes younger than 18 years old, the athlete’s parent or guardian must also provide confirmation that they have also reviewed the concussion resources as well and signed the Concussion Code of Conduct.
Coaches, officials and team trainers must provide confirmation that they have also reviewed the concussion resources and sign the Concussion Code of Conduct; but not if they will be interacting exclusively with athletes who are 26 years old or older.
Racquetball Canada will include in its registration procedures, for individuals who are located in Ontario, the registration information described in the Registration Information – Ontario (Appendix B).

Recognizing Concussions

If any of the following red flags are present, an ambulance should be called and/or an on-site licensed healthcare professional should be summoned:
1. Neck pain or tenderness;
2. Double vision;
3. Weakness or tingling / burning in arms or legs;
4. Severe or increasing headache;
5. Seizure or convulsion;
6. Loss of consciousness;
7. Deteriorating conscious state;
8. Vomiting more than once;
9. Increasingly restless, agitated, or combative;
10. Getting more and more confused.
The following observable signs may indicate a possible concussion:
1. Lying motionless on the playing surface;
2. Slow to get up after a direct or indirect hit to the head;
3. Disorientation or confusion / inability to respond appropriately to questions;
4. Blank or vacant look;
5. Balance or gait difficulties, motor incoordination, stumbling, slow laboured movements;
6. Facial injury after head trauma.
A concussion may result in the following symptoms:
1. Headache or “pressure in head”;
2. Balance problems or dizziness;
3. Nausea or vomiting;
4. Drowsiness, fatigue, or low energy;
5. Blurred vision;
6. Sensitivity to light or noise;
7. More emotional or irritable;
8. “Don’t feel right”;
9. Sadness, nervousness, or anxiousness;
10. Neck pain;
11. Difficulty remembering or concentrating;
12. Feeling slowed down or “in a fog”.
Failure to correctly answer any of these memory questions may suggest a concussion:
1. What venue are we at today?
2. Who is your opponent?
3. What colour of ball are we using?
4. How many points does the game go up to?

Removal from Sport Protocol

In the event of a Suspected Concussion where there are observable signs of a concussion, symptoms of a concussion, or a failure to correctly answer memory questions, the Participant should be immediately removed from participation by a designated person.
After removal from participation, the following actions should be taken:
1. The designated person who removed the Participant should consider calling 9-1-1;
2. Racquetball Canada must make and keep a record of the removal;
3. The designated person must inform the Participant’s parent or guardian if the Participant is younger than 18 years old, and the designated person must inform the parent or guardian that the

Participant is required to undergo a medical assessment by a physician or nurse practitioner before the Participant will be permitted to return to participation; and

1. The designated person will remind the Participant, and the Participant’s parent or guardian as applicable, of Racquetball Canada’s Return-to-Sport protocol as described in this Policy.
Participants who have a Suspected Concussion and who are removed from participation should:
1. Be isolated in a dark room or area and stimulus should be reduced;
2. Be monitored;
3. Have any cognitive, emotional, or physical changes documented;
4. Not be left alone (at least for the first 1-2 hours);
5. Not drink alcohol;
6. Not use recreational/prescription drugs;
7. Not be sent home by themselves;
8. Not drive a motor vehicle until cleared to do so by a medical professional.
A Participant who has been removed from participation due to a suspected concussion should not return to participation until the Participant has been assessed medically, preferably by a physician who is familiar with the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool – 5 ^th Edition (SCAT5) (for Participants over the age of 12) or the Child SCAT5 (for Participants between 5 and 12 years old), even if the symptoms of the concussion resolve.

Re-Evaluate

21. A Participant with a Suspected Concussion should be evaluated by a licensed physician who should conduct a comprehensive neurological assessment of the Participant and determine the Participant’s clinical status and the potential need for neuroimaging scans.

Rest and Rehabilitation

Participants with a diagnosed SRC should rest during the acute phase (24-48 hours) but can gradually and progressively become more active so long as activity does not worsen the Participant’s symptoms. Participants should avoid vigourous exertion.
Participants must consider the diverse symptoms and problems that are associated with SRCs. Rehabilitation programs that involve controlled parameters below the threshold of peak performance should be considered.

Refer

24. Participants who display persistent post-concussion symptoms (i.e., symptoms beyond the expected timeline for recovery – 10-14 days for adults and 4 weeks for children) should be referred to physicians with experience handling SRCs.

Recovery and Return to Sport

SRCs have large adverse effects on cognitive functioning and balance during the first 24-72 hours after injury. For mostParticipants, these cognitive defects, balance and symptoms improve rapidly during the first two weeks after injury. An important predictor of slower recovery from an SRC is the severity of the Participant’s initial symptoms following the first few days after the injury.
The table below represents a graduated return to sport for most Participants, in particular those that did not experience high severity of initial symptoms after the following the first few days after the injury.

Stage	Aim	Activity	Stage Goal
1	Symptom-limited activity	Daily activities that do not provoke symptoms	Gradual reintroduction of work/school activities
2	Light aerobic exercise	Walking or stationary cycling at slow to medium pace. No resistance training	Increase heart rate
3	Sport-specific exercise	Running drills. No head impact activities	Add movement
4	Non-contact training drills	Harder training drills. May start progressive resistance training	Exercise, coordination and increased thinking
5	Full contact practice	Following medical clearance, participate in normal training activities	Restore confidence and assess functional skills by coaching staff
6	Return to sport	Normal participation

Table 1 – Return to Sport Strategy

An initial period of 24-48 hours of both physical rest and cognitive rest is recommended before beginning the Return to Sport strategy.
There should be at least 24 hours (or longer) for each step. If symptoms reoccur or worsen, the Participant should go back to the previous step.
Resistance training should only be added in the later stages (Stage 3 or Stage 4).
If symptoms persist, the Participant should return to see a physician.
The Participant’s Return-to-Sport strategy should be guided and approved by a physician with regular consultations throughout the process.
The Participant must provide Racquetball Canada with a medical clearance form, signed by a physician, following Stage 5 and before proceeding to Stage 6.

Reconsider

The 2017 Concussion in Sport Group (CISG) considered whether certain populations (children, adolescents, and elite athletes) should have SRCs managed differently.
It was determined that all Participants, regardless of competition level, should be managed using the same SRC management principles.
Adolescents (13 to 18 years old) and children (5 to 12 years old) should be managed differently. SRC symptoms in children persist for up to four weeks. More research was recommended for how these groups should be managed differently, but the CISG recommended that children and adolescents should first follow a Return to School strategy before they take part in a Return to Sport strategy. A Return to School strategy is described below.

Stage	Aim	Activity	Stage Goal
1	Daily activities at home that do not give the child symptoms	Typical activities of the child during the day as long as they do not increase symptoms (e.g., reading, texting, screen time). Start with 5–15 min at a time and gradually build up	Gradual return to typical activities
2	School activities	Homework, reading or other cognitive activities outside of the classroom	Increase tolerance to cognitive work
3	Return to school parttime	Gradual introduction of schoolwork. May need to start with a partial school day or with increased breaks during the day	Increase academic activities
4	Return to school full time	Gradually progress school activities until a full day can be tolerated	Return to full academic activities and catch up on missed work

Table 2 – Return to School Strategy

Residual Effects

36. Participants should be alert for potential long-term problems such as cognitive impairment and depression. The potential for developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) should also be a consideration, although the CISG stated that “a cause-and-effect relationship has not yet been demonstrated between CTE and SRCs or exposure to contact sports. As such, the notion that repeated concussion or subconcussive impacts cause CTE remains unknown.”

Risk Reduction and Prevention

37. Racquetball Canada recognizes that knowing a Participant’s SRC history can aid in the development of concussion management and the Return to Sport strategy. The clinical history should also include information about all previous head, face, or cervical spine injuries. Racquetball Canada encourages Participants to make coaches and other stakeholders aware of their individual histories.

Non-Compliance

38. Failure to abide by any of the guidelines and/or protocols contained within this policy may result in disciplinary action in accordance with Racquetball Canada’s Discipline and Complaints Policy.

Appendix A – Racquetball Canada Concussion Code of Conduct

SECTION A

The following section of the Concussion Code of Conduct must be signed by all Participants under the age of 26 years old. For Participants who are younger than 18 years old, a parent/guardian must also sign this section.

I will help prevent concussions by:

Wearing the proper equipment for my sport and wearing it correctly.
Developing my skills and strength so that I can participate to the best of my ability.
Respecting the rules of my sport or activity.
Demonstrating my commitment to fair play and respect for all (respecting other athletes, coaches, team trainers and officials).

I will care for my health and safety by taking concussions seriously, and I understand that:

A concussion is a brain injury that can have both short-term and long-term effects.
A blow to my head, face or neck, or a blow to the body that causes the brain to move around inside the skull may cause a concussion.
I don’t need to lose consciousness to have had a concussion.
I have a commitment to concussion recognition and reporting, including self-reporting of possible concussion and reporting to a designated person when an individual suspects that another individual may have sustained a concussion. (Meaning: If I think I might have a concussion I should stop participating in further training, practice or competition immediately, and I will tell an adult if I think another athlete has a concussion).
Continuing to participate in further training, practice or competition with a possible concussion increases my risk of more severe, longer lasting symptoms, and increases my risk of other injuries.

I will not hide concussion symptoms. I will speak up for myself and others.

I will not hide my symptoms. I will tell a coach, official, team trainer, parent or another adult I trust if I experience anysymptoms of concussion.
If someone else tells me about concussion symptoms, or I see signs they might have a concussion, I will tell a coach, official, team trainer, parent or another adult I trust so they can help.
I understand that if I have a suspected concussion, I will be removed from sport and that I will not be able to return to training, practice or competition until I undergo a medical assessment by a medical doctor or nurse practitioner and have been medically cleared to return to training, practice or competition.
I have a commitment to sharing any pertinent information regarding incidents of removal from sport with my school and any other sport organization with which I have registered. (Meaning: If I am diagnosed with a concussion, I understand that letting all of my other coaches and teachers know about my injury will help them support me while I recover).

I will take the time I need to recover, because it is important for my health.

I understand my commitment to supporting the return-to-sport process and I will follow my sport organization’s Return-to-Sport Protocol.
I understand I will have to be medically cleared by a medical doctor or nurse practitioner before returning to training, practice or competition.
I will respect my coaches, team trainers, parents, health-care professionals, and medical doctors and nurse practitioners, regarding my health and safety.

The following section must be included in the Concussion Code of Conduct if Racquetball Canada has adopted policies regarding (a) zero-tolerance (b) mandatory disqualification for illegal play that is considered high risk for causing concussions and (c) escalating consequences for violation of the Concussion Code of Conduct.

I will help prevent concussions, through my:

Commitment to zero-tolerance for prohibited play that is considered high risk for causing concussions
Acknowledgement of mandatory expulsion from competition for violating zero-tolerance for prohibited play that is considered high risk for causing concussions. (Meaning: I will be disqualified/expelled from play if I violate the zero-tolerance policy).
Acknowledgement of the escalating consequences for those who repeatedly violate the Concussion Code of Conduct.

By signing here, I acknowledge that I have fully reviewed and commit to this Concussion Code of Conduct.

SECTION B

The following section of the Concussion Code of Conduct must be signed by all coaches and team trainers who interact with Participants under the age of 26 years old.

I can help prevent concussions through my:

Efforts to ensure that my athletes wear the proper equipment and wear it correctly.
Efforts to help my athletes develop their skills and strength so they can participate to the best of their abilities.
Respect for the rules of my sport or activity and my efforts to ensure that my athletes do too.
Commitment to fair play and respect for all (respecting other coaches, team trainers, officials and all participants and ensuring my athletes respect others and play fair).

I will care for the health and safety of all participants by taking concussions seriously. I understand that:

A concussion is a brain injury that can have both short-term and long-term effects.
A blow to the head, face, or neck, or a blow to the body may cause the brain to move around inside the skull and result in a concussion.
A person doesn’t need to lose consciousness to have had a concussion.
An athlete with a suspected concussion should stop participating in training, practice or competition immediately.
I have a commitment to concussion recognition and reporting, including self-reporting of possible concussion and reporting to a designated person when an individual suspects that another individual may have sustained a concussion.
Continuing to participate in further training, practice or competition with a suspected concussion increases a person’s risk of more severe, longer lasting symptoms, and increases their risk of other injuries or even death.

I will create an environment where participants feel safe and comfortable speaking up. I will:

Encourage athletes not to hide their symptoms, but to tell me, an official, parent or another adult they trust if they experience any symptoms of concussion after an impact.
Lead by example. I will tell a fellow coach, official, team trainer and seek medical attention by a physician or nurse practitioner if I am experiencing any concussion symptoms.
Understand and respect that any athlete with a suspected concussion must be removed from sport and not permitted to return until they undergo a medical assessment by a physician or nurse practitioner and have been medically cleared to return to training, practice or competition.
For coaches only: Commit to providing opportunities before and after each training, practice and competition to enable athletes to discuss potential issues related to concussions.

I will support all participants to take the time they need to recover.

I understand my commitment to supporting the Return-to-Sport process.
I understand the athletes will have to be cleared by a physician or nurse practitioner before returning to sport.
I will respect my fellow coaches, team trainers, parents, physicians and nurse practitioners and any decisions made with regards to the health and safety of my athletes.

By signing here, I acknowledge that I have fully reviewed and commit to this Concussion Code of Conduct.

Racquetball Canada third party independent hotline

I understand that Racquetball Canada and its partner affiliates have a third party independent hotline that I can call to make a complaint regarding Racquetball Canada staff or volunteers (1 888 83SPORT)

For more information about Racquetball Canada's Policies please click here https://racquetballcanada.ca/policies/